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PNG Content Provenance

Sign, embed, and verify C2PA manifests in PNG files (.png)

What Is PNG Provenance?

Lossless image format used for graphics, screenshots, and images requiring transparency. PNG provenance protects infographics, charts, and editorial graphics.

With Encypher, PNG files carry their own cryptographic proof of origin. A C2PA manifest is embedded directly into the file, recording who created it, when, and whether it has been modified. Anyone can verify a signed PNG file for free, without authentication.

How C2PA Manifests Are Embedded in PNG Files

MIME Type
image/png
File Extensions
.png
Embedding Method
JUMBF data stored in a custom PNG chunk, per C2PA specification
Container Type
JUMBF
Verification Pipeline
c2pa-python (native C2PA library support)

The C2PA manifest contains a JUMBF (JPEG Universal Metadata Box Format) store with COSE-signed claims. For PNG files, the manifest is stored using jumbf data stored in a custom png chunk, per c2pa specification. The signing process does not alter the image content itself. The manifest is metadata, not a modification of the pixels.

Use Cases for PNG Provenance

  • Infographics
  • Screenshots
  • Logos and graphics
  • Data visualizations
  • Editorial illustrations

How to Sign PNG Content with Encypher

PNG signing is available at the Enterprise tier through the unified /sign/media API endpoint. Upload your PNG file, and the API returns a signed copy with an embedded C2PA manifest.

curl -X POST https://api.encypher.com/api/v1/sign/media \
  -H "Authorization: Bearer YOUR_API_KEY" \
  -F "file=@example.png" \
  -F "title=My PNG Content" \
  -F "action=c2pa.created" \
  -o signed.png

Verify PNG Provenance (Free)

Verification is free and requires no authentication. Any third party can verify a signed PNG file to confirm its origin, check for tampering, and read the embedded rights information.

Related Formats

Learn More About Content Provenance